Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 21 November 2017
60. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment if funding has been allocated in budget 2018 for an eel fisheries hardship scheme; and if so, if a proposed scheme has been devised. [49047/17]
View answer74. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment when funding can be drawn down for an eel fisheries hardship fund; the way in which funds will be allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49048/17]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 60 and 74 together.
Ireland’s Eel Management Plan (EMP) under EU Regulation 1100/2007, which included a closure of commercial fishing, was approved by the European Commission in 2009. Ireland's EMP and its conservation measures were reviewed in 2012 and in 2015, in accordance with the EU Regulation. Both reviews involved an examination of the latest scientific data and the conservation measures, the results of which were the subject of public consultations.
I recognise fully the difficulty facing eel fishermen and, notwithstanding that fact that there is no property right attaching to public eel licences, the possibility of implementing support measures for eel fishermen is a matter under consideration.
Given that Ireland’s Eel Management Plan (EMP), and the conservation measures it contains, was originally approved by the European Commission under EU Regulation 1100/2007, consultation and discussion with the European Commission would be a key element in the consideration of any potential financial support measure.
Both I and the Minister have also discussed the issue of eels with ESB Fisheries who are fishery owners in this context.
